2012 Ford Kuga likely to be imported to China next year

Shanghai November 30 (Gasgoo.com) Following Ford Edge's launch in China, the U.S. automaker is planning introduction of another compact SUV, the 2012 Ford Kuga next year to rival Chinese-made compact SUVs, with an estimated price between 200,000 yuan-300,000 yuan ($30,000-$45,000), xcar.com reported Tuesday.

Ford is scheduled to officially release the 2012 model in 2011. Great changes have been made to the new Kuga's front face and rear part, mainly an integration of Ford family's new design style. That is an adoption of Ford Fiesta hatchback's front face and of two additional LED headlamps under the regular headlights.

The 2012 Kuga features Ford's new 2.0L TDCi Duratorq diesel engine and will be available in the 140hp and 163hp versions. The new engine delivering higher fuel efficiency and better performance is mated to a 6-speed Powershift dual-clutch automatic transmission.

In regard to the gasoline power, the new Ford Kuga keeps abreast with the new Focus, i.e., an employment of the new EcoBoost four-cylinder turbocharged direct-injection engines-a 1.6L engine and the Duratorq TDCi common rail diesel engine. Compared to the existing engines, this series could reduce fuel consumption by 10% to 20%.